Snap! What to Do When Your Garage Door Springs Break.

If your garage door suddenly won’t open, makes a loud bang, or looks a little wonky, chances are a spring has snapped. A broken spring is a common occurrence and something we fix most days.

Garage doors rely on springs to do all the heavy lifting, making opening and closing feel effortless. There are two main types: torsion springs, which twist above the door to lift and lower it, and extension springs, which stretch along the tracks to balance the door’s weight. Both are under serious tension, which is why they can be dangerous to handle yourself.

Most garage door springs break because of normal wear and tear. They’re built for 10,000–15,000 cycles, which usually lasts about 7–10 years, but eventually all that tension catches up with them. Rust, moisture, or salty air can weaken the metal, and skipping maintenance like lubrication or inspections doesn’t help. Other culprits include misaligned tracks, off-balance doors, heavy or frequently used doors, extreme temperature changes, or using springs that aren’t the right size or quality. Often the break happens suddenly, but there are usually warning signs first - like squeaks, uneven movement, or a door that’s harder to lift than usual.

So, how can you tell if a spring has actually broken? If you heard loud BANG, a door that moves unevenly or crookedly, trouble opening it manually, or a visible gap in the spring. If any of these appear, step back and don’t use the door - garage door springs are under enough tension to cause serious injury.

Replacing a garage door spring typically costs from $350 for a single door and $450 for a double, depending on the type of spring, the door size, and how tricky the installation is. While it might feel like a big number, fixing it promptly can prevent bigger problems - and keep your garage and everything in it safe.

At Back On Track Garage Doors, we specialise in spring repairs and replacements. Ash can handle both torsion and extension springs, making sure your door opens smoothly and safely every time. We offer transparent pricing, fast service, and the know-how to get your garage door back in action without the stress.

If your garage door springs snap or show signs of wear, contact Back On Track Garage Doors today and get expert help fast. Your garage (and your sanity) will thank you!

The inside of a garage door showing the springs at the top.

Snap!

Don’t let a broken spring leave you stuck - contact Back On Track Garage Doors today for fast, safe, and reliable repairs!